KOZHIKODE: Vanimel gram panchayat near Kuttiady is treading a pro-poor tourism (PPT) path to tap its tourism potential and connecting it to the livelihood of local communities. PPT, a current trend in tourism generates net benefits for the poor not in economic terms only, but also in social, environmental and cultural aspects. In this connection, 10 spots had been identified by the gram panchayat including three pilgrimage centres.
“We had identified a total of 1.75 acres of land for tourism and informed the tourism department. The department’s team will be here on April 8 to inspect the spots,” said T. Shahul Hameed, Vanimel gram panchayat secretary. The aim is to promote village tourism and make it beneficial for the local community. The spots include Thirukakkayam waterfall, Valiya Paanom viewpoint, Chakkarakundu falls, Aduppil Thonikkayam falls, Chandanatham Kunnu and Panniyeri.
A ropeway is being planned at Thirukakkayam. Chakkarakundu and Aduppil Thonikkayam are close to the tribal settlement and facilities such as eateries serving tribal cuisine and sales outlets of tribal crafts would be set up here. “The tribal community will be the primary beneficiary of the PPT. In areas they cannot function, Kudumbashree workers would be roped in as in Kumarakam where village tourism has been successfully implemented,” added Mr Hameed. The three identified pilgrimage spots are St George Church at Vilangad, Velliyod Masjid and Chelayilakaavu temple. “The tourism department had shown interest in the project. A detailed project report will be prepared after the inspection on April 8,” said gram panchayat president Jayan O.C.
